Freddie van Mierlo MP Joins Local River Guardians in Battle Against Invasive Species

Stadhampton, Oxfordshire – 15 May 2025 – Freddie van Mierlo, MP for Henley and Thame, has joined forces with the River Thame Conservation Trust to tackle the growing threat of invasive non-native species in Oxfordshire’s rivers.

To mark Invasive Species Week, Freddie met with David Fraser, Chief Executive of the River Thame Conservation Trust, and Richard Borrell, Match Secretary for the Cuddesdon Mill Village Anglers Association, just outside Stadhampton. He saw the removal of three nets full of Signal crayfish — an aggressive North American species introduced to the UK in the 1970s for farming, which has since spread unchecked through our waterways.

Signal crayfish outcompete our native white-clawed crayfish and spread a deadly disease known as crayfish plague. Their burrowing undermines riverbanks and damages aquatic habitats, while their feeding habits devastate local ecosystems.

Freddie van Mierlo MP said:
“Protecting our local environment is a responsibility we all share. The work of organisations like the River Thame Conservation Trust is vital in safeguarding our rivers, wildlife, and biodiversity. Invasive species are a real threat — to nature, to our economy, and even to our health. I encourage everyone to learn more during Invasive Species Week and get involved however they can.”

Richard Borrell added:
“Signal crayfish cause massive ecological damage to the rivers and potentially can eat 80% of all fish eggs in the river, which as an angler I perceive as a serious problem.”

David Fraser commented:
“I think it’s great that Freddie, as our local MP, can have a good awareness of the issues surrounding invasive non-native species. It’s essential to encourage the public and businesses to act responsibly and ensure these species aren’t released or spread into the environment.”

Invasive non-native species (INNS) threaten native wildlife, cost the UK economy nearly £2 billion a year, and interfere with activities such as angling, walking, and boating. Invasive Species Week is a national initiative aimed at raising awareness and encouraging action to prevent the spread of these damaging organisms.

The River Thame Conservation Trust works across Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire to restore and protect the River Thame and its tributaries. Their work includes habitat restoration, community engagement, and scientific monitoring to support biodiversity and improve water quality.

To learn more about the Trust’s work, visit: www.riverthame.org
To get involved in Invasive Species Week, visit: www.nonnativespecies.org